Posterior Tracheopexy Research Articles

Anesthesia for Posterior Tracheopexy in Pediatric Patients.

Tracheobronchomalacia refers to an abnormally excessive collapse of the trachea and/or bronchi during exhalation. In the pediatric population, tracheobronchomalacia is increasingly recognized as a cause of morbidity and mortality. Historically, options for medical management and surgical intervention were limited, and patient outcomes were poor. Over the last decade, select US pediatric institutions have devoted significant resources to the establishment of dedicated surgery and anesthesia teams and the development of novel techniques for the successful identification, assessment, and surgical correction of tracheobronchomalacia in a highly complex subset of the pediatric population. The close communication, collaboration, and evolution of anesthesia techniques to meet the unique requirements of new surgical procedures have greatly improved patient safety and optimized outcomes. More than 800 cases have been performed across 2 US pediatric institutions using these techniques. This article reviews the posterior tracheopexy procedure, a newer but increasingly common surgery designed to address tracheobronchomalacia, and provides an overview of related anesthesia considerations and unique challenges. In addition, this article describes novel anesthesia techniques developed specifically to facilitate optimal diagnosis of tracheobronchomalacia and intraoperative management of posterior tracheopexy and similar airway surgeries. These include methods to safely enable 3-phase rigid dynamic bronchoscopy for accurate tracheobronchomalacia diagnosis, recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring during cervical and thoracic surgical dissection, continuous intraoperative bronchoscopy to enable real-time images during airway reconstruction, and intraoperative assessment of airway repair adequacy to ensure successful correction of tracheobronchomalacia.

Posterior Tracheopexy for Tracheomalacia: A Study of Clinical and Radiological Consequences on Esophagus.

Posterior tracheopexy (PT) directly addresses the posterior trachealis membrane intrusion in severe tracheomalacia. During PT, the esophagus is mobilized and membranous trachea is sutured to the prevertebral fascia. Although dysphagia has been reported as a possible complication of PT, in the literature there are no data investigating postoperative esophageal anatomy and digestive symptoms. Our aim was to study clinical and radiological consequences of PT on esophagus. Patients with symptomatic tracheobronchomalacia scheduled for PT between May 2019 and November 2022 underwent pre- and postoperative esophagogram. For each patient, we analyzed radiological images and measured esophageal deviation providing new radiological parameters. All 12 patients underwent thoracoscopic PT (n = 3) or robot-assisted thoracoscopic PT (n = 9). For all patients, the postoperative esophagogram showed a right dislocation of the thoracic esophagus (median postoperative deviation = 27.5 mm). We report an esophageal perforation at postoperative day 7 in a patient affected by esophageal atresia, who underwent several surgical procedures before. A stent was placed and esophagus healed. Another patient with severe right dislocation referred transient dysphagia to solids, which resolved gradually in the first postoperative year. All the other patients did not present any esophageal symptoms. For the first time, we demonstrate the right dislocation of the esophagus after PT and we propose an objective method to measure it. In most patients, PT is a procedure not affecting esophageal function, but dysphagia can occur if dislocation is important. Esophagus mobilization during PT should be cautious, especially in patients who underwent previous thoracic procedures.

Surgical treatment for severe pediatric tracheobronchomalacia: the 20-year experience of a single center

ObjectiveIn children with tracheobronchomalacia, surgical management should be reserved for the most severe cases and be specific to the type and location of tracheobronchomalacia. The goal of this study is to describe the presentation and outcomes of children with severe tracheobronchomalacia undergoing surgery. MethodsRetrospective case series of 20 children operated for severe tracheobronchomalacia at a tertiary hospital from 2003 to 2023. Data were collected on symptoms age at diagnosis, associated comorbidities, previous surgery, age at surgery, operative approach, time of follow-up, and outcome. Surgical success was defined as symptom improvement. ResultsThe most frequent symptoms of severe tracheobronchomalacia were stridor (50 %), cyanosis (50 %), and recurrent respiratory infections (45 %). All patients had one or more underlying conditions, most commonly esophageal atresia (40 %) and prematurity (35 %). Bronchoscopy were performed in all patients. Based on etiology, patients underwent the following procedures: anterior aortopexy (n = 15/75 %), posterior tracheopexy (n = 4/20 %), and/or posterior descending aortopexy (n = 4/20 %). Three patients underwent anterior aortopexy and posterior tracheopexy procedures. After a median follow-up of 12 months, 16 patients (80 %) had improvement in respiratory symptoms. Decannulation was achieved in three (37.5 %) out of eight patients with previous tracheotomy. The presence of dying spells at diagnosis was associated with surgical failure. ConclusionsIsolated or combined surgical procedures improved respiratory symptoms in 80 % of children with severe tracheobronchomalacia. The choice of procedure should be individualized and guided by etiology: anterior aortopexy for anterior compression, posterior tracheopexy for membranous intrusion, and posterior descending aortopexy for left bronchus obstruction.

The History and Legacy of the Foker Process for the Treatment of Long Gap Esophageal Atresia

Historically, children afflicted with long gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) had few options, either esophageal replacement or a life of gastrostomy feeds. In 1997, John Foker from Minnesota revolutionized the treatment of LGEA. His new procedure focused on “traction-induced growth” when the proximal and distal esophageal segments were too far apart for primary repair. Foker's approach involved placement of pledgeted sutures on both esophageal pouches connected to an externalized traction system which could be serially tightened, allowing for tension-induced esophageal growth and a delayed primary repair.Despite its potential, the Foker process was received with criticism and disbelief, and to this day, controversy remains regarding its mechanism of action - esophageal growth versus stretch. Nonetheless, early adopters such as Rusty Jennings of Boston embraced Foker's central principle that “one's own esophagus is best” and was instrumental to the implementation and rise in popularity of the Foker process. The downstream effects of this emphasis on esophageal preservation would uncover the need for a focused yet multidisciplinary approach to the many challenges that EA children face beyond “just the esophagus”, leading to the first Esophageal and Airway Treatment Center for children. Consequently, the development of new techniques for the multidimensional care of the LGEA child evolved such as the posterior tracheopexy for associated tracheomalacia, the supercharged jejunal interposition, as well as minimally invasive internalized esophageal traction systems. We recognize the work of Foker and Jennings as key catalysts of an era of esophageal preservation and multidisciplinary care of children with EA.

Primary Posterior Tracheopexy at Time of Esophageal Atresia Repair Significantly Reduces Respiratory Morbidity

PurposeEsophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF) is often associated with tracheobronchomalacia (TBM), which contributes to respiratory morbidity. Posterior tracheopexy (PT) is an established technique to treat TBM that develops after EA/TEF repair. This study evaluates the impact of primary PT at the time of initial EA/TEF repair. MethodsReview of all newborn primary EA/TEF repairs (2016–2021) at two institutions. Long-gap EA and reoperative cases were excluded. Based on surgeon preference and preoperative bronchoscopy, neonates underwent primary PT (EA + PT Group) or not (EA Group). Perioperative, respiratory and nutritional outcomes within the first year of life were evaluated. ResultsAmong 63 neonates, 21 (33%) underwent PT during EA/TEF repair. Groups were similar in terms of demographics, approach, and complications. Neonates in the EA + PT Group were significantly less likely to have respiratory infections requiring hospitalization within the first year of life (0% vs 26%, p = 0.01) or blue spells (0% vs 19%, p = 0.04). Also, they demonstrated improved weight-for-age z scores at 12 months of age (0.24 vs −1.02, p < 0.001). Of the infants who did not undergo primary PT, 10 (24%) developed severe TBM symptoms and underwent tracheopexy during the first year of life, whereas no infant in the EA + PT Group needed additional airway surgery (p = 0.01). ConclusionIncorporation of posterior tracheopexy during newborn EA/TEF repair is associated with significantly reduced respiratory morbidity within the first year of life. Level of evidenceLevel III.

Outcome of primary posterior tracheopexy in thoracoscopically repaired esophageal atresia neonates with tracheomalacia; single center's experience

BackgroundTracheomalacia frequently develops in esophageal atresia patients (EA) especially in those with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). Conservative management has been the standard treatment; however, it was reported that delay in management could result in chronic lung conditions. Thus, early surgical interventions have been recently recommended. Patients and MethodsWe enrolled patients presented with type-C esophageal atresia, with concomitant moderate to severe tracheomalacia, who had their thoracoscopic intervention done during the study period 2019–2022. Early and intermediate- term outcomes were studied and compared to another cohort with mild or no tracheomalacia. ResultsDuring the allocated study period, 24 patients met the inclusion criteria for tracheopexy, but only 17 were followed up due to early demise of the other seven. During the follow-up period, 7/17 patients developed respiratory symptoms, which were attributed to esophageal stricture in 5 patients, recurrent TEF in 2 patients and one of them had residual tracheomalacia in addition to the developed recurrent TEF. The outcomes of the enrolled patients for tracheopexy were similar to those with no or mild tracheomalacia. ConclusionsPrimary posterior tracheopexy during the primary repair might be considered a safe and feasible option not only to alleviate respiratory symptoms secondary to tracheomalacia in EA patients, but also to decline the need of further surgical interventions. However, more comprehensive studies with long-term follow-ups are mandatory.

The aortic uncrossing procedure

ObjectiveCross-sectional imaging allows identification of rare patients with a vascular ring and circumflex aorta. The key diagnostic feature is crossing of the transverse aortic arch from right to left posterior to the trachea and superior to the carina in a patient with a right aortic arch. We evaluated our patients who received an aortic uncrossing procedure. MethodsWe reviewed all patients who underwent aortic uncrossing from 2002 to 2022. All patients received preoperative computed tomography imaging and bronchoscopy. ResultsEleven patients ranging in age from 1.5 to 10 years (median 4 years) underwent aortic uncrossing. Two patients had prior left ligamentum division, and 3 patients had prior left aortic arch division. All had significant clinical symptoms. Eight patients had deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (mean 34 minutes), and 3 patients had antegrade cerebral perfusion (median, 28 minutes). Patch material was not used for aortic augmentation, and no patient underwent a posterior tracheopexy or rotational esophagoplasty. Postoperative length of stay ranged from 4 to 31 days (median, 5 days). One patient required a temporary tracheostomy for bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve paresis, which recovered. One patient required an aortic extension graft to alleviate esophageal compression from an unusual ectatic esophageal course. All patients had relief of airway symptoms and dysphagia. ConclusionsIn properly selected patients with a right aortic arch and circumflex aorta, aortic uncrossing is a safe and effective therapy to treat airway and esophageal compression. The procedure can be conducted with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest or antegrade cerebral perfusion. Careful attention to the location of the esophagus and recurrent laryngeal nerves is required.

An Invaginating Congenital Tracheal Diverticulum: The Importance of Routine Airway Evaluation

Introduction: Children with esophageal atresia (EA) often have concomitant airway pathology, including tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), tracheobronchomalacia (TBM), and tracheal diverticulum (TD).1,2 TD is rare and the incidence is estimated to be <1%. The hypothesized pathophysiology is because of a weakening in the tracheal lining resulting in an outpouching. Although largely asymptomatic, presence of a TD poses a risk for secretion accumulation with recurrent infection burden, and dangerous accidental intubation of the TD. Although some advocate for routine airway evaluation in all patients with EA, others perform it selectively, particularly in cases of long-gap EA (LGEA) thought to not have a TEF.3 We aim to highlight the importance of a thorough preoperative airway evaluation in all cases of EA, as other entities besides TEF/TBM can exist altering LGEA management. Materials and Methods: A 2-month-old male term infant with history notable for vertebral, anal, cardiac, tracheoesophageal fistula, renal, and/or limb defects anomalies, including unrepaired LGEA (Type A), underwent preoperative aerodigestive evaluation before LGEA management. Clinically, he had intermittent desaturations/tachypnea, requiring supplemental oxygen through nasal cannula. He underwent a three-phase rigid dynamic tracheobronchoscopy, flexible esophagoscopy, gapogram, and CT of the chest. Video of the bronchoscopy is provided. Results: CT imaging noted a lobulated 4 mm soft tissue density projecting from the posterior tracheal wall of the upper thoracic trachea thought to be a focal mucus accumulation. Bronchoscopy identified a mid-tracheal soft tissue “mass” creating significant airway obstruction (80%–90%). With positive pressure ventilation, the “mass” self-everted to showcase its true nature: a TD that would invaginate into the trachea on exhalation and returning to diverticular shape with positive pressure. This was confirmed on operative exploration where a true congenital diverticulum, entirely separate from the upper esophageal pouch, was identified and removed with a transverse tracheoplasty-type closure followed by posterior tracheopexy. Depending on the location of the TD, this can be done through a neck or thoracic approach. We chose to perform a right-sided thoracic approach. This can be completed thoracoscopically given the correct anatomical circumstances. We advocate for tracheopexy for several reasons: (1) to stabilize the tracheal suture line and help it heal; (2) given that we will be performing an esophageal anastomosis to treat the patient's EA, this prevents the risk for acquired TEF if the suture lines are in proximity; and (3) many of these children also have TBM and this aids in stabilization of the tracheal membrane. Alternative methods of management can involve plication of the TD without resection or endoscopic approaches with irritant/abrasive substances, yet this can lead to recurrence as the inner mucosa is not removed. Conclusion: This video highlights the importance of thorough preoperative airway evaluations in all EA cases, as not only are TEFs important to identify, but also other significant airway pathology often coexists requiring treatment with the EA repair. Rigid ventilating bronchoscopy provides the ability to evaluate airway anomalies that may be missed or misdiagnosed without the ability to deliver positive pressure ventilation. Authors have received and archived patient consent for video recording/publication in advance of video recording of procedure. Patient consent is within the medical record. No competing financial interests exist. Runtime of video: 1 min 56 secs To be presented as a video presentation at the upcoming IPEG/ESPES Conference, July 2023.

Effects of primary posterior tracheopexy in thoracoscopic repair of esophageal atresia

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of primary posterior tracheopexy (PPT) in reducing ventilator dependence after repair of esophageal atresia (EA), and the risk of respiratory tract infections (RTI) requiring readmissions within one year. MethodsThis retrospective cohort study recruited patients with EA admitted to our hospital between June 2020 and December 2021. ResultsIn the PPT group (n = 17), the time to extubation after surgery was 86.7 h for 12 patients, with one patient (8.3%) requiring repeated postoperation intubation; six-in-sixteen patients (37.5%) experience at least one RTI requiring hospitalization in one year. In the non-PPT group (n = 17), the time to extubation was 127.0 h for 14 patients, with six-in-fourteen patients (42.9%) requiring repeated intubation; twelve-in-seventeen patients (70.6%) experienced at least one RTI requiring hospitalization in one year. ConclusionsAlthough the differences did not reach statistical significance due to limited number of participants, patients underwent PPT during EA repair had lower chance of repeated intubation and decreased risk of RTI requiring admissions within one year.

Of catarrh and catharsis

Of catarrh and catharsis

Update on aortopexy and posterior tracheopexy for tracheomalacia in patients with esophageal atresia.

Despite improving the survival after repair of esophageal atresia (EA), the morbidity of EA repair remains high. Specifically, tracheomalacia (TM) is one of the most frequent complications of EA repair. Continuous positive airway pressure is generally applied for the treatment of TM. However, surgical intervention is required against an apparent life-threatening event or inability to perform extubation for a long period. According to our review, most cases of TM showed symptom improvement after aortopexy. The ratio of the trachea's lateral and anterior-posterior diameter at the brachiocephalic artery crossing the trachea, which reflects the compression of the trachea by the brachiocephalic artery, is a good indicator of aortopexy. Our finding suggests that most TM cases associated with EA may not be caused by tracheal fragility alone, but may involve blood vessel compression. Posterior tracheopexy (PT) is also an effective treatment for TM. Recently, open or thoracoscopic PT was able to be performed simultaneously with EA repair. In many cases, aortopexy or PT is a safe and effective surgical treatment for TM with EA. Other surgical procedures, such as external stenting, should be considered for patients with diffuse-type TM for whom aortopexy and PT appear relatively ineffective.

An Ex Vivo Model of Posterior Tracheomalacia With Evaluation of Potential Treatment Modalities.

Posterior tracheomalacia (TM) is characterized by excessive intraluminal displacement of the tracheal membranous wall. Recently, novel surgical strategies for repair of posterior TM have been introduced. To our knowledge, these strategies have not been evaluated in a model of posterior TM. Thus, we sought to design an ex vivo mechanical model of posterior TM to evaluate potential repair interventions. A model for posterior TM was created with partial thickness longitudinal incisions to the posterior aspect of ex vivo porcine trachea. Three groups of tracheas were tested: (1) control (unmanipulated), (2) posterior TM (injury), and (3) intervention (repair). Interventions included external splinting with 0.3 and 0.5 mm bioresorbable plates, posterior tracheopexy, and injection tracheoplasty with calcium hydroxylapatite. An airtight tracheal system was created to measure tracheal wall collapse with changes in negative pressure. A bronchoscope and pressure transducer were connected to either end. Cross-sectional area of the tracheal lumen was analyzed using ImageJ software (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD). Average percent reduction in cross-sectional area of the tracheal lumen was compared using a two-tailed paired t-test. Significant differences were found between control and TM groups (p< 0.019). There was no significant difference between control and external splinting and posterior tracheopexy groups (p> 0.14). We describe an ex vivo model for posterior TM that replicates airway collapse. External splinting and tracheopexy interventions showed recovery of the injured tracheal segment. Injection tracheoplasty did not improve the TM. N/A Laryngoscope, 133:2000-2006, 2023.

Thoracoscopic posterior tracheopexy during primary esophageal atresia repair ameliorate tracheomalacia in neonates: a single-center retrospective comparative cohort study

BackgroundEsophageal atresia (EA) is often associated with tracheomalacia (TM). The severity of TM symptoms varies widely, with serious cases requiring prolonged respiratory support and surgical treatment. Although we performed thoracoscopic posterior tracheopexy (TPT) during primary EA repair to prevent or reduce the symptoms of TM, few studies have investigated the safety and effectiveness of TPT during primary EA repair. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of TPT in neonates.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients diagnosed with TM who underwent primary thoracoscopic EA repair between 2013 and 2020 at the Nagoya University Hospital. Patients were divided into two groups: TPT (TPT group) and without TPT (control group). TPT has been performed in all patients with EA complicated by TM since 2020. We compared patient backgrounds, surgical outcomes, postoperative complications, and treatment efficacy.ResultsOf the 22 patients reviewed, eight were in the TPT group and 14 were in the control group. There were no statistically significant differences in the surgical outcomes between the groups (operation time: p = 0.31; blood loss: p = 0.83; time to extubation: p = 0.30; time to start enteral feeding: p = 0.19; time to start oral feeding: p = 0.43). Conversion to open thoracotomy was not performed in any case. The median operative time required for posterior tracheopexy was 10 (8–15) min. There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications between the groups (chylothorax: p = 0.36; leakage: p = 1.00; stricture: p = 0.53). The respiratory dependence rate 30 days postoperative (2 [25%] vs. 11 [79%], p = 0.03) and the ratio of the lateral and anterior–posterior diameter of the trachea (LAR) were significantly lower in the TPT group (1.83 [1.66–2.78] vs. 3.59 [1.80–7.70], p = 0.01).ConclusionsTPT during primary EA repair for treatment of TM significantly lowered respiratory dependence rate at 30 days postoperative without increasing the risk of postoperative complications. This study suggested that TPT could improve TM associated with EA.

Primary Posterior Tracheopexy in Esophageal Atresia Decreases Respiratory Tract Infections.

Background: Esophageal atresia (EA) is often accompanied by tracheomalacia (TM). TM can lead to severe respiratory complaints requiring invasive treatment. This study aims to evaluate if thoracoscopic primary posterior tracheopexy (PPT) can prevent the potential sequelae of TM in patients with EA.Methods: A cohort study including all consecutive EA patients treated between 2014 and July 2019 at the Wilhelmina Children's Hospital was conducted. Two groups were distinguished: (group 1) all EA patients born between January 2014 and December 2016 and (group 2) all EA patients born between January 2017 and July 2019, after introduction of PPT. In the latter group, PPT was performed in EA patients with moderate (33–66%) or severe (67–100%) tracheomalacia, seen during preoperative bronchoscopy. Group differences were assessed using the Fisher's exact test for bivariate variables and the Mann–Whitney U-test for continuous variables.Results: A total of 64 patients were included in this study (28 patients in group 1; 36 patients in group 2). In group 2, PPT was performed in 14 patients. Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) requiring antibiotics within the first year of life occurred significantly less in group 2 (61 vs. 25%, p = 0.004). Brief resolved unexplained events (BRUEs) seemed to diminish in group 2 compared to group 1 (39 vs. 19%, p = 0.09).Conclusion: Thoracoscopic primary posterior tracheopexy decreases the number of respiratory tract infections in EA patients. The clinical impact of reducing RTIs combined with the minimal additional operating time and safety of PPT outweighs the risk of overtreatment.

Experience with bioresorbable splints for treatment of airway collapse in a pediatric population.

ObjectiveTo report our experience with novel external tracheal and bronchial placed bioresorbable splints in children with severe symptomatic airway collapse.MethodsRetrospective review of patients undergoing bioresorbable splint placement.ResultsBetween July 2018 and February 2020, 14 patients received 16 external splints (trachea, n = 8; left bronchus, n = 7; and right bronchus, n = 1). Preoperatively, 7 patients had a tracheostomy; 6 of them were receiving mechanical ventilation with ventilator settings so high that they required an inpatient setting, often in an intensive care unit. Median age at implant was 14.5 months (range, 2 months-14 years). Splints were formed from moldable bioresorbable plates (RapidSorb; Synthes, Oberdorf, Switzerland) and were customized intraoperatively around a Hegar dilator. A series of Prolene sutures were placed through into the airway cartilage under simultaneous bronchoscopic and direct visualization and then tied securing the airway within the splint. Concomitant procedures were also performed in the region of the airway splints, consisting of airway reconstruction, cardiovascular procedures, and/or esophageal rotation (related to posterior tracheopexy). Median follow-up was 20 months (interquartile range, 12-21 months). Four patients required no further intervention. Although not necessarily in the splinted region, 7 patients required additional procedures, including posterior tracheobronchopexy (n = 2), temporary tracheal stent placement (n = 1), tracheal resection with end-to-end anastomosis (n = 1), closure tracheostomy (n = 1), and tracheostomy placement (n = 2). One patient required splint replacement and in 1 patient, the splint was removed later. All patients (except 2 deaths from unrelated causes) were discharged home. Three patients required mechanical ventilation at lower settings that allowed home ventilation (1 of those only at night), and 4 patients required tracheostomy collar. Indications for tracheostomy included subglottic stenosis, vocal cord paralysis, pulmonary insufficiency, small airway malacia, and laryngomalacia.ConclusionsAn external bioresorbable splint can provide temporary external support while allowing the age-proportional growth of the airway. We applied readily available bioresorbable plates that were custom-molded based on the location, shape, and length of the collapsing airway in selected patients presenting with severe tracheobronchomalacia from loss of structural support and/or cartilage deformation. Further study that includes long-term outcomes are necessary to define the best role for these external splints as part of comprehensive airway management.

Posterior Tracheopexy Leads to Long-Term Zero Recurrence Rate after Surgical Treatment of Recurrent Tracheoesophageal Fistula

Posterior Tracheopexy Leads to Long-Term Zero Recurrence Rate after Surgical Treatment of Recurrent Tracheoesophageal Fistula

Effect of Posterior Tracheopexy on Risk of Recurrence in Children after Recurrent Tracheo-Esophageal Fistula Repair

A recurrent tracheo-esophageal fistula can complicate esophageal atresia and tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF) repair in children. Therapeutic approaches and the rate of recurrence vary widely. Most reports are limited by small cohorts and short-term follow-up, and rates of re-recurrence are substantial, making it difficult to select the treatment of choice. We aimed to review our experience with the treatment of recurrent TEF using posterior tracheopexy, focusing on operative risks and long-term outcomes. We conducted a retrospective review of patients with esophageal atresia TEF with recurrent TEF treated at 2 institutions from 2011 to 2020. We approach recurrent TEFs surgically. Once the TEF is divided and repaired, the membranous trachea is sutured to the anterior longitudinal ligament of the spine (posterior tracheopexy) and the esophagus is rotated into the right chest (rotational esophagoplasty), separating the suture lines widely. To detect re-recurrence, patients undergo endoscopic surveillance during follow-up. Sixty-two patients with a recurrent TEF were surgically treated (posterior tracheopexy/rotational esophagoplasty) at a median age of 14 months. All had significant respiratory symptoms. On referral, 24 had earlier failed endoscopic and/or surgical attempts at repair. Twenty-nine required a concomitant esophageal anastomotic stricturoplasty or stricture resection. Postoperative morbidity included 3 esophageal leaks, and 1 transient vocal cord dysfunction. We have identified no recurrences, with a median follow-up of 2.5 years, and all symptoms have resolved. The surgical treatment of recurrent TEFs that incorporates a posterior tracheopexy and rotational esophagoplasty is highly effective for preventing re-recurrence with low perioperative morbidity.

P44 Posterior Tracheopexy in Severe Tracheobronchomalacia in Children

Tracheomalacia is a segmental or diffuse weakness of the trachea. If the main stem bronchi are involved, the term tracheobronchomalacia is used. At present, there is no structured approach for the assessment of paediatric tracheobronchomalacia. Surgically, it is a challenging substrate to deal with. Long term ventilation and tracheostomy is not the preferred approach due to obvious morbidity associated. Stent placement has issues with migration while aortopexy does not sort out posterior tracheal intrusion. Posterior Tracheopexy as primary intervention for severe tracheobronchomalacia was done for the first time in Australia, to the best of our knowledge.

Flexible airway endoscopy in esophageal atresia patients undergoing colon interposition

ABSTRACT Background: Colon interposition is used for delayed surgical repair of esophageal atresia, but congenital esophageal atresia with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (CEA ± TEF) is associated with long-term respiratory morbidity. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of upper airway anomalies, and detect the implications of the preoperative flexible airway endoscopy (FAE) on the decision of performing tracheopexy whether aortopexy or more recently, posterior tracheopexy in cases of severe tracheomalacia. A randomized, prospective, controlled study was conducted in a tertiary care pediatric surgery center from September 2016 to October 2020 where thirty child of either sex, aged 2–8 years, scheduled for a colon interposition repair for esophageal atresia. After induction of general anesthesia dynamic airway endoscopic examination with ultra-thin fibroptic bronchoscopy was performed Results: Dynamic study of pediatric upper airway showed that only one case out of 30 child enrolled in the present study had grade II subglottic stenosis in the proximal trachea (3.34%), while five cases (16.67%) had tracheomalacia with different degrees and only one severe case required aortopexy Conclusion: Dynamic airway endoscopic examination can predict airway anomalies associated with esophageal atresia and enhance post colon interposition respiratory outcomes.

Posterior tracheobrochopexy with thoracoscopic or robotic approach: technical details

Posterior tracheopexy has been proposed as a novel approach to treat tracheobronchomalacia, in addition or alternative to more traditional treatments as aortopexy. Reports on this technique are still very sporadic. Our aim is to discuss technical surgical details based on our preliminary experience of thoracoscopic and robotic posterior tracheopexy. Technical details on 6 patients (from 8 months to 13 years of age) operated for posterior tracheopexy with a thoracoscopic approach are presented and discussed. In two cases robotic posterior tracheopexy was performed. Two patients presented multiple comorbidities and had a tracheostomy previously performed. Airway obstruction evaluated at pre-operative bronchoscopy was between 70 and 100%, with posterior intrusion of pars membranacea. Operative time ranged from 110 to 320 min. In three cases aortopexy was associated, one at the same time, in the other two before or after tracheopexy. No specific complications of posterior tracheopexy were observed. Robotic approach made the esophageal dissection and the tracheobronchopexy technically easier. Thoracoscopic approach is feasible, robotic assistance is helpful for improving visualization, esophageal dissection, and making easier and more precise the pexy of the trachea and bronchi on all its length. Both bronchi can be approached and pexied if necessary, and this is a specific advantage of tracheopexy with respect to aortopexy. Intraoperative bronchoscopy and strict collaboration between surgeons and anesthesiologists are essential.